In a society that often underestimates the intelligence and potential of veiled Muslim women, PEACE (AS-SALAAM) Magazine, Nigeria’s leading Islamic news publication, is set to make a bold statement. As part of its 22nd-anniversary celebration, PEACE Magazine proudly presents “The Honour Roll Ceremony,” a groundbreaking event to honour the academic excellence of 20 young Nigerian Muslim women from federal universities nationwide.
Since its inception in 2002, PEACE Magazine has been a beacon of Islamic advocacy and responsible journalism. Over the past two decades, it has become a respected voice in Islamic journalism, committed to dispelling stereotypes, uplifting the Muslim community, and promoting the values of faith, knowledge, and modesty. This milestone celebration is a testament to the magazine’s unwavering dedication to its mission, despite challenges along the way.
The Honour Roll Ceremony carries a theme that strikes at the heart of misconceptions about Muslim women in Nigeria and beyond—“Celebrating Intelligent Brains under the Veil.” In an era when some parts of society glorify superficial values, this event shines a spotlight on the remarkable academic achievements of hijab-wearing women who have defied the odds and proven their brilliance. These young women, selected based on their outstanding performances as valedictorians, first-class graduates, and top female students from federal universities, represent the best of Nigeria’s future leaders.
This event aims to make these graduates role models for other young female students in tertiary institutions, preparing them as future Islamic leaders. It also celebrates their achievements as part of a reward system that Islam encourages and facilitates the start of their employment process in relevant sectors of the economy. As we celebrate their excellence, modesty, dignity, and honour, we are reminded of the values in Surah An-Nur (24:30-31).
The event will take place on Tuesday, October 29, at 1:30 p.m., at the Nigerian Society of Engineers Auditorium in the Central Business District of Abuja. Distinguished guests, including renowned scholars and thought leaders, will attend, making this ceremony one of the most anticipated Islamic events of the year.
The ceremony will be chaired by Professor Yusuf Ali, SAN, FCIArb, a Senior Advocate and respected figure in Nigeria’s legal and academic circles. Special guest of honour Alhaji Lawal Garba MFR, the Chairman of Trobell International Limited, will join, and Professor Usman Muhammad Shu’aib (Zunnurain), Director of the International Institute of Islamic Banking and Finance at Bayero University, Kano, will deliver the keynote address.
High-profile dignitaries are set to grace the ceremony, further underscoring its significance. Expected attendees include Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, Chief Justice of Nigeria, Supreme Court of Nigeria; Professor Olayinka Ramota Karim, Vice-Chancellor of Fountain University, Osogbo; Professor Sa’adatu Hassan Liman, Vice-Chancellor of Nasarawa State University; Alhaja Muibat F. Aribidesi, National Chairperson of NUDS Women’s Wing and PEACE Magazine Matron; Dr. Habiba Muda Lawal, Former Acting Secretary to the Government of the Federation; Hajia Kaltume Bulama Gana, Artistic Director/CEO, National Troupe of Nigeria; and Malam Shehu Wada Esq., Principal Partner of Shehu Wada & Co.
Additional notable guests include Malam Tanko Isiaku Gwamna, Chairman of TAJ Bank; Alhaji Bola Munirudeen Oyebanji, MD/CEO of National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA); His Excellency Aiyub Omar, High Commissioner of Malaysia to Nigeria; Malam Jibrin Baba Ndace, Director-General of Voice of Nigeria; Mallam Mohammed Mustapha Bintube, Board Chairman of JAIZ Bank Plc; Hajiya Halima Ishaq, Head of Corporate Communications at JAIZ Bank Plc; Dr. Adamu Ahmed Abdullahi of the Federal Competition & Consumer Protection Commission; Alh. Bashir Idris, Lifidin Jama’a of Jama’a Emirate Council, and Patron of PEACE Magazine; Honourable Justice Habeeb Wale Abiru, Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria; Hon. Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM); Dr Jamila Bio Ibrahim, Honourable Minister of Youth Development; Dr Mariya Mahmud, Honourable Minister of State, Federal Capital Territory; AIG Aishatu Abubakar Baju, Force Gender Advisor to the Inspector General of Police and President of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria; Honourable Nkiruka Onyejeocha, Minister of State, Labour and Employment; Malam Alhassan Abdulkarim, Executive Director North, JAIZ Bank Plc; Hajiya Zainab Abdulrahman, Board Chairman of JAIZ Takaful Limited; and Professor Aisha Maikudi, Acting Vice-Chancellor, University of Abuja.
In addition to these dignitaries, organizations such as the Federation of Muslim Women Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN), Education Social and Health Mission (MESH), Crown Takaful Limited, and JAIZ Takaful Limited will be represented at the event.
This celebration marks the beginning of a lasting legacy, as PEACE Magazine aims to make the Honour Roll Ceremony an annual event. Through this platform, the magazine intends to continually highlight the brilliance of Muslim women, challenge societal stereotypes, and celebrate values that honour modesty, chastity, and fidelity.
This unique event serves as a reminder that beneath the veil of modesty lies a world of untapped potential, intelligence, and ambition. These young women are living proof that the hijab is not a barrier but a crown worn by scholars, leaders, and change-makers.
